Preston’s chase of Fleetwood Town defender James Hill has taken another hit as Burnley appear to be moving in with a £2million bid.
North End looked into signing Hill over the summer after being impressed with his displays at Fleetwood.
Sepp van den Berg’s return seemed to put Hill on the back burner – and Preston may now miss out.
The Mirror reported earlier this month that Barcelona have been scouting Hill ahead of a possible move.
The Sun now claim that, rather than Barcelona, it’s Burnley who could win the race.
It’s stated that Burnley are prepared to pay £2million for Hill in January. That offer would also see young Burnley defender Bobby Thomas head on loan to Fleetwood.
Given that Hill is out of contract at the end of the season, £2million would be great money for Fleetwood.
Add in Thomas replacing Hill until the summer and Burnley may have the most enticing offer.
Preston almost certainly can’t offer that kind of cash even if they still like Hill.
The young centre back – the son of former Preston defender Matt Hill – looks to have slipped through North End’s net and could instead end up at rivals Burnley in a major blow.